Norway Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
Norway's unemployment rate was 4.50% in August 2026, up from 4.20% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 4.90%.
Norway's unemployment rate stands at 4.50% as of August 2026. Over the latest readings, the unemployment rate has moved within a band of 2.60% to 6.00%. The most recent figure of 4.50% is up from 4.20% a month earlier, and is 0.40% lower than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 227 economies tracked on this platform, Norway ranks #139 on unemployment rate by latest value. It rose from 4.20% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 4.90%.
What's driving it
Joblessness tracks the business cycle, labour-force participation and structural shifts in industry, and tends to lag changes in output.
Recent readings
| Period | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|
| Aug 2026 | 4.50% |
| Jul 2026 | 4.20% |
| Jun 2026 | 4.57% |
| May 2026 | 4.50% |
| Apr 2026 | 4.60% |
| Mar 2026 | 4.80% |
| Feb 2026 | 4.80% |
| Jan 2026 | 4.60% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in Norway in 2026?
Norway's unemployment rate was 4.50% in August 2026, up from 4.20% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 4.90%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in Norway?
It rose in the latest reading — 4.50% in August 2026 versus 4.20% a month earlier. Year on year it is lower.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.